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2024 Compare Cities Overview:
Salem, OR vs Portland, OR

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Highlights
Are people in Portland older or younger than people in Salem?
- The Median Age in Portland is 2.2 years older than in Salem.

Are housing costs cheaper in Portland or Salem?
- Portland housing costs are 34.6% more expensive than Salem housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Portland or Salem?
- The average commute for residents of Portland is 4.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Salem.

Things to do in Salem?
Salem, Oregon is a vibrant city located in the Willamette Valley. With its close proximity to both the ocean and the mountains, Salem offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing and hiking in nearby parks and forests. The city is also home to a variety of museums and historical sites from the state's rich past, as well as an array of shopping centers, entertainment venues and nightlife hotspots. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or relocating for the long term, Salem has something for everyone.

Things to do in Portland?
Portland, Oregon is a vibrant city full of culture and fun activities. Spend the day exploring downtown or visit some of the city's many parks, trails and gardens such as Washington Park and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Enjoy top restaurants, breweries, shopping and nightlife activities around Alberta Street or take in the majestic views from Mount Tabor. For those looking for more adventure and exploration, head out to the Columbia River Gorge or the Cascade Mountains. From its unique attractions to its natural beauty, Portland is sure to keep you busy!

 Salem, ORPortland, ORUnited States
 Population174,193647,176329,725,481
 Median Income$62,185$78,476$69,021
 Median Age35.737.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$399,000$537,200$338,100
 Unemployment Rate6.2%6.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.6226.1426.38

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Reviews for Salem    37 Reviews

After reading the reviews here, I had to come write my own. The problem I had with most of the reviews is that most were very opinion-based and seemed to assume everyone  More

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Moved here approx. 4 years ago from SW Michigan, but I've lived in 9 other cities & 5 other states. Salem is a very manageable sized city, with tons of parks, diverse  More

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Over 4 years ago

I'm a native 5th generation Oregonian, so bear in mind that I was born with webs between my toes! Anyway, I used to think it rained too much when I was young. Then I  More

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Reviews for Portland    386 Reviews

I lived in Portland for 19 years (I've also lived in Boise, ID, the Bay Area, Austin, TX and now Nampa, ID). It drives me nuts when people try to give a large city a  More

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One of the best cities in America. Food scene is the best in the world. Weather is preferable over places where you have the same weather year round. I enjoy the  More

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I moved from Houston to Portland about a year ago. I remember reading the reviews on here and it making me second guess moving before I did, so I wanted to come back and  More

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ZIPS IN SALEM, OREGON
97301 97302 97304 97306
ZIPS IN PORTLAND, OREGON
97206, 97202, 97233, 97219, 97236, 97230, 97211, 97266, 97217, 97203, 28 total

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